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Ancient South Arabia (Room 53)

The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Gallery

Ancient South Arabia was centred on what is now modern Yemen but
included parts of Saudi Arabia and southern Oman. It was famous in
the ancient world as an important source of valuable incense and
perfume, and was described by Classical writers as Arabia Felix
(“Fortunate Arabia”) because of its fertility.

Several important kingdoms flourished there at different times
between 1000 BC and the rise of Islam in the sixth century AD. The
oldest and most important of these was Saba, which is referred to
as Sheba in the Bible.

Room 53 features highlights from the Museum’s collection, which
is one of the most important outside Yemen. The display includes
examples of beautiful carved alabaster sculptures originally placed
inside tombs, incense-burners and a massive bronze altar.